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Pioneers Pathway, Toodyay to Merredin Pioneers Pathway, Toodyay to Merredin

2WD  in Golden Outback

(+1)
Wheatbelt & Wave Rock, Avon Valley

  • Multiple day
  • 224 km

The Pioneers’ Pathway is a self-drive route that traverses the Wheatbelt between Toodyay and Merredin following the well worn trail early prospectors travelled to the Yilgarn, Coolgardie and Kalgoorlie Goldfields. Wander past expansive farmland and nature reserves through the small towns of Goomalling, Dowerin, Wyalkatchem, Trayning and Nungarin.

Historic Slaters Homestead 2.5km east of Goomalling.
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A rewarding and slower paced alternative to the Great Eastern Highway if you are travelling between Perth to Kalgoorlie or a scenic alternative to the Avon Valley and Coral Coast if you are travelling west.

The sealed two-lane road offers historical towns, many with names derived from Aboriginal words, with museums full of pioneer farming, millitary and rail history. Marvel at the construction of stone pioneer wells dug to supply water to the travellers. Nature based family excursions take you exploring along bush walking trails to pristine reserves and 2,500 million year granite rock features where an abundance of birds and animals call home.

Many flowering trees and shrubs are common along the trail and after significant rains the wildflowers and delicate orchids put on a spectacular display from August to November which is a photographer’s paradise.

Many markets, family fun days, agricultural shows, festivals and events include the Act Belong Commit Avon Decent which starts at Toodyay, the Dowerin GWN Machinery Field Days and monthly Wheatbelt Markets at Nungarin and nearby, the annual Mangowine Concert. Motor sport enthusiasts are catered for at the Goomalling Flyer and the Trayning Mud-Bog and Burn-Out Day.

To help you experience a memorable journey through one of WA’s most friendly and laid-back regions, pick up one of the free Pioneers' Pathway booklets from a visitor centre along the way - or download the free e-book from the Pioneers' Pathway website.

Other Links

  • Pioneers' Pathway

    The Wheatbelt Wander - Toodyay to Merredin

  • Dowerin Field Days

    Dowerin's premier event is the GWN7 Dowerin Machinery Field Days held over two days in August annually is the biggest rural event in Western Australia.

  • Australia’s Golden Outback

    Comprehensive information on the Golden Outback region including destinations, things to see and do, accommodation and tours.


Be trail ready for Pioneers Pathway, Toodyay to Merredin

Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.

Time / Duration

Recommend 1 - 5 day itineraries as set out in the Pioneers’ Pathway Brochure.

Length

The Pioneers' Pathway is 224km starting at Toodyay or 314km if starting from Perth. An alternative return route to Perth is along the Great Eastern Highway (260km) making the round trip 574km

What To Pack

Group D - Drive Trails (Drive trails: 2WD & 4WD) required.

Trail Start

Toodyay in the Avon Valley 84km (1hr 15 mins) east of Perth

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Trail End

Merredin in the Central Wheatbelt 314km (3 hours) east of Perth via the Pioneers' Pathway

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Hazards & Warnings

Summer months (December to February) can be hot. Burning (open fires) restrictions November to March. Beware of snakes in summer.

Facilities

Caravan parks and/or accommodation in all towns along the Pioneers' Pathway.
  • BBQ Facilities
  • Cafe
  • Camping
  • Car Park
  • Child Activities
  • Dog Friendly
  • Lookouts
  • All accessible parking
  • Picnic Area
  • Public Toilet
  • Shaded Area
  • Sheltered Area
  • Shop
  • All accessible toilet facilities
  • Visitor Information Centre
  • Water Access Points

Best time of year

Any time of year but best August to November for wildflowers.

Trail Access

Road

Prohibited Items

Dogs on leads permitted at most reserves and caravan parks.
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